Traditional Diploma with Endorsements

Mississippi students now have the opportunity to make their high school diploma more valuable. Starting in 2018-19, all 9th graders will choose whether they want to work toward a Traditional Diploma, or take additional classes to earn an academic, distinguished academic or career and technical education endorsement.

Each diploma option will prepare students to be successful after graduation, whether that be in the workforce, a career and technical training program or college. Also, beginning with incoming 9th graders in 2018-19, students who earn an academic or distinguished academic diploma endorsement from a public high school will be accepted into any of the state’s public universities.

Students are encouraged to talk with their school counselor to learn more about Mississippi’s Traditional high school diploma and opportunities to earn endorsements.

Mississippi High School Diploma and Endorsement Options Requirements

Earn 24 credits (Carnegie Units) in a selection of required classes including English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Technology or Computer Science, College and Career Readiness, Health, Art, Physical Education and electives

Local school districts may add graduation requirements to the state requirements

Mississippi public schools offer an alternate course of study for students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities. This course of study leads to the Alternate Diploma, which recognizes that a student has completed high school. The Alternate Diploma is not equivalent to a Traditional Diploma and is not recognized by postsecondary entities that require a standard high school diploma.